Sep 12, 2019
Men’s Wellness & Prevention

Prostate Cancer Awareness Month: What You Need To Know

September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month — and it's one of the most important reminders of the year for men to take their health seriously.
By - Russel H Williams, MD

The Numbers Behind Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer affects more than 3 million men every year worldwide. It is one of the most common cancers affecting men — and one of the most treatable when caught early.

The risk of prostate cancer increases with age, which is why early detection and regular screening are critical. Knowing your risk and staying ahead of it with regular evaluations is the single most important thing a man can do.

I'm Over 50. What Should I Expect During a Prostate Cancer Screening?

The Y Factor recommends prostate cancer screenings for men over the age of 50. Here's what to expect when you come in:

Complete Medical History - Your provider will begin by reviewing your full medical history, including any family history of prostate cancer, current symptoms, and overall health status.

Comprehensive Prostate Exam - A thorough physical examination of the prostate is performed as part of the screening.

PSA Blood Test - A simple blood test called the Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test is used to identify patients who may be at elevated risk for prostate cancer. This is a quick, straightforward test that provides important diagnostic information.

Prostate Biopsy (If Needed) - If your PSA results or exam findings indicate further evaluation is warranted, our providers will perform a prostate biopsy.

Follow-Up and Monitoring - For patients with no cancer detected, The Y Factor establishes a close monitoring plan using specialized diagnostic laboratory testing and a scheduled follow-up program. For patients with positive biopsy results, our urologists will recommend the appropriate treatment plan tailored to your specific situation.

I'm Under 50. What Can I Do to Protect My Health?

You don't have to wait until 50 to take your health seriously. The Y Factor recommends our Annual Urological Wellness Exam for men under 50 — and we recommend starting at age 20.

Men's health needs change as they age, which is why annual appointments are beneficial for continued optimal health at every stage of life.

What Does the Annual Urological Wellness Exam Include?

Your annual exam at The Y Factor includes a physical examination and comprehensive laboratory testing. We screen for a wide range of male-specific conditions, including:

  • Sexual dysfunction
  • Testosterone decline
  • Fertility problems
  • Genital cancers
  • Sexually transmitted diseases

We also monitor blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol — conditions that directly affect long-term health and quality of life.

The goal is not to wait for a problem to develop. The goal is to identify risk factors early, when they are most manageable, and keep you in optimal health year after year.

Why Prostate Cancer Awareness Month Matters

Prostate cancer is highly treatable when caught early — but too many men avoid screenings until symptoms appear. By the time symptoms develop, the cancer may be at a more advanced stage. Regular screening removes that risk entirely.

This September, if you are over 50 and have not had your prostate checked, there is no better time. And if you are under 50, scheduling your Annual Urological Wellness Exam is the proactive step that keeps you ahead of problems before they start.

Serving Houston and the Surrounding Areas

The Y Factor provides prostate cancer screenings and Annual Urological Wellness Exams to men across the greater Houston area, including Katy, The Woodlands, Tomball, Sugar Land, Cypress, Spring, Pearland, Friendswood, and League City.

Schedule Your Screening at The Y Factor Today

Your health is worth an hour of your time. Whether you're due for a prostate screening or ready to start your annual wellness exam, The Y Factor is here to help you stay ahead of the curve.

Women have OB-GYNs. Men have The Y Factor.

Call us today or book online. Same-week appointments available in Houston.

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Asked Questions

  • At what age should men start prostate cancer screenings?

    The Y Factor recommends prostate cancer screenings for men over the age of 50. Men under 50 are encouraged to schedule an Annual Urological Wellness Exam starting at age 20 to monitor overall male health and catch risk factors early.

  • What is a PSA test and what does it measure?

    The Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test is a simple blood test that measures the level of PSA in the blood. Elevated PSA levels can indicate an increased risk of prostate cancer and may prompt further evaluation, including a prostate biopsy if needed.

  • What happens if my prostate biopsy comes back positive?

    The urologists at The Y Factor will recommend an appropriate treatment plan tailored to your specific diagnosis and situation. Patients with no cancer detected are placed on a close monitoring schedule using specialized diagnostic laboratory testing and regular follow-up care.

  • What does The Y Factor's Annual Urological Wellness Exam cover?

    The Annual Urological Wellness Exam includes a physical examination and laboratory testing. It screens for sexual dysfunction, testosterone decline, fertility problems, genital cancers, and sexually transmitted diseases, as well as monitoring blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol.

  • Why should men under 50 get an annual urological wellness exam?

    Men's health needs change with age, and many conditions — including testosterone decline, fertility issues, and sexual dysfunction — can begin developing well before 50. Annual exams allow The Y Factor to identify and address these issues early, when they are most manageable, and support long-term optimal health.

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